O-sechi is a traditional Japanese dish, most commonly enjoyed during the New Year celebrations. It is a celebratory meal that is cherished at home, representing a rich cultural tradition. To better understand the origins and significance of o-sechi, we spoke with KOMIYA Rimi, an expert on the cuisine and the representative director of the Gyojishoku Association.
Origins of O-sechi
O-sechi cuisine is carefully prepared using ingredients that can be preserved for long periods. The dishes are presented in a multi-layered box called jubako, which is designed to keep the food fresh while allowing those who typically prepare meals to rest during the New Year. KOMIYA Rimi, an expert in o-sechi, shared insights into its origins.
“When I explain o-sechi to people from other countries, I describe it as Japan’s special dish for the New Year,” KOMIYA says. “Originally, o-sechi referred to food offerings made to gods during one of the five seasonal festivals, called sechinichi, which occur throughout the year. Over time, however, the New Year’s festival became the most important, and the term ‘o-sechi’ started to represent the food prepared for this occasion.”
The History of O-sechi Boxes
The practice of arranging o-sechi dishes in a jubako box, as we see today, is believed to have originated around the 14th century. However, lacquered jubako boxes were once considered luxury items and were not widely accessible. By the 17th century, the use of these decorative boxes became more common in households.
Symbolism Behind O-sechi Ingredients
Each dish in o-sechi carries deep symbolic meaning. KOMIYA explains the significance of some traditional ingredients:
Kazunoko (herring roe): Represents prosperity for descendants.
Tazukuri (sweetly simmered dried sardines): Symbolizes a good harvest.
Kuro-mame (sweetly simmered black beans): Stands for health and well-being.
Tataki Gobo (pounded burdock root): Represents stability and strength.
These ingredients reflect the hopes and wishes for happiness, health, and prosperity for family and loved ones in the coming year. Alongside o-sechi, zoni, a soup containing mochi rice cakes, is also an essential dish. Zoni is rooted in the tradition of cooking and eating mochi offerings made to gods during seasonal rituals. It represents receiving the blessings of the gods and is a key part of New Year’s cuisine.
The Cultural Significance of O-sechi
O-sechi is not only known for its vibrant appearance but also for its cultural depth. KOMIYA notes, “Overseas visitors often express admiration for the thoughtful meaning behind o-sechi. It is something Japan can be proud of, as it represents the nation’s long-standing culture of valuing the significance behind its food.”
Looking ahead, KOMIYA hopes to continue passing down Japan’s food traditions, such as o-sechi, to future generations, ensuring that the cultural practices surrounding New Year’s cuisine remain alive and well.
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